Page 1
Animals—Human Cheek Cells
Activity supplied by Swift Optical Instruments, LLC
Recommended Grade Level(s):
Appropriate for: Middle & High School
Time Requirements:
One (50 minute) session
National Science Standards Alignment
MS-LS1-1: Conduct an investigation to provide evidence that living things are
made of cells; either one cell or many different numbers and types of cells.
MS-LS1-2: Develop and use a model to describe the function of a cell as a
whole and ways the parts of cells contribute to the function.
• DCI: LS1.A: Structure and Function
• All living things are made up of cells, which is the smallest unit that
can be said to be alive. An organism may consist of one single cell (unicellular) or many different numbers and types of
cells (multicellular). (MS-LS1-1)
• Within cells, special structures are responsible for particular functions, and the cell membrane forms the boundary that
controls what enters and leaves the cell. (MS-LS1-2)
• In multicellular organisms, the body is a system of multiple interacting subsystems. These subsystems are groups of
cells that work together to form tissues and organs that are specialized for particular body functions. (MS-LS1-3)
Materials:
• Digital microscope, such as Swift Digital Microscope
• Microscope slides and cover slips
• Computers
• Projector (for one computer)
• Flat toothpicks
• Staining solution or Methylene Blue
• Pipettes or eyedroppers
Introduction:
Animalia, or animals, are one of the five kingdoms of life. Animal cells have two structures not shared with plant cells: the centriole
and lysosomes. In this activity, you will explore the structure of human cheek cells, and you will compare and contrast them with
the plant (Elodea) cells.
+
ward
'
s
science
Human Cheek Cells
Safety
This activity involves the collection, handling, and disposal of the human cheek cells; your students need to
be careful and follow all safety rules.
!
